Head Start Program Director, Early Learning Services

Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago is seeking a Director of ECR Programs to provide leadership across Easterseals Head Start/Early Head Start programs in Chicago. The role drives compliance with Head Start standards, oversees budgets, and steers enrollment and reporting efforts.

The position requires 5+ years in administration or supervision, 7–10 years in Head Start/Early Head Start, and strong collaboration with leadership, policy councils, and funding partners. Located in Chicago, on-site role.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field.
• 5 years of administrative or supervisory experience; at least 3 years Head Start supervisory.
• 7–10 years of experience in Head Start/Early Head Start.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of potential partners, funding sources, and regulatory bodies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products.

Responsibilities

• Lead Easterseals Head Start/Early Head Start programs to comply with Head Start standards.
• Develop enrollment plans, budgets, reporting, and program evaluations.
• Oversee the program budget, ensuring funds meet goals and requirements.
• Collaborate with Policy Council and Board; prepare reports for funding agencies.
• Monitor performance, prepare quarterly and annual reports, and drive improvements.
• Lead HR processes, talent development, and staff professional development.

Skills

Administrative experience

Supervisory experience

Head Start supervisory

Program outcomes

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Regulatory knowledge

Microsoft Office

Problem solving

Relationship building

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago is seeking a Director of ECR Programs to provide leadership across Easterseals Head Start/Early Head Start programs in Chicago. The role drives compliance with Head Start standards, oversees budgets, and steers enrollment and reporting efforts.

The position requires 5+ years in administration or supervision, 7–10 years in Head Start/Early Head Start, and strong collaboration with leadership, policy councils, and funding partners. Located in Chicago, on-site role.